Legislation battery charging stations

The directive, NPR 3299, for battery charging stations has been renewed. Consideration should be given to the ATEX 137 directive, as of certain types of batteries may cause an explosive atmosphere when taking insufficient protective measures.

For example, the NPR gives an indication about when hydrogen is produced during the charging process of batteries. In combination with oxygen, hydrogen can produce an extremely sensitive explosive gas.

Therefore the concentration of hydrogen in the air may not exceed four percent by volume and the ignition energy should not exceed the 0,019 Joules. These conditions are required since this gas is easily inflamed. This gas is easily inflamed by welding sparks, electrical installations or hot surfaces.

The guideline recommends a gas detector to be included in the ventilation and in the security systems, so that, by an excessive concentration, a mechanical ventilation will be activated. Also, the charging equipment can be turned off. For the ventilation- and charging system, Electromach equipment can be used to meet the required safety levels.